Glass side panel cases are PC cases that let you see inside the build: mostly midi tower models with a tempered glass or transparent panel. They suit gaming and workstation builders who want to show off their components and lighting.
Our range includes cases from Thermaltake, HYTE, DeepCool, Jonsbo, Corsair and Cooler Master.
How to choose a glass side panel case
Size and motherboard format. Start with the motherboard you plan to use (ATX, micro-ATX or mini-ITX), since it has to fit the case. Most cases in our range are midi towers, though there are also mini towers and cube-shaped models. Midi towers generally leave more room for cooling and cable routing.
Airflow. A glass panel does not let air through, so airflow depends entirely on the openings at the front, top and rear. Look for a mesh or perforated front and check how many fans fit on top: models in our range list 2 or 3. If you plan to use a liquid-cooled processor, confirm the radiator size the case accepts.
Graphics card and cooler clearance. Large graphics cards need space, so compare the card length with the maximum the case allows. Do the same with the CPU cooler height, because the side panel limits it. Many models in our range have 7 expansion slots and some have 10 or 11, which matters for thick graphics cards.
Glass type and fixing. Tempered glass scratches less and does not flex like acrylic, but it is heavier and can shatter on impact. Check whether the panel is held by screws or opens on hinges, and how easily it comes off when you need to change components.
Storage and ports. Many models in our range have 2 bays for 3.5-inch drives and anywhere from 1 to 6 bays for 2.5-inch SSDs. On the front panel, look at the USB ports: most models list 2 USB 3.2 Gen 1 Type-A ports, but some have none.
Brands we carry
- Thermaltake: known for its View and Core series, with many models built around tempered glass panels.
- HYTE: best known for the Y60, which has panoramic glass on the corner to show off the components.
- DeepCool: first known for CPU coolers, and its cases are designed with good airflow in mind.
- Corsair: makes the popular 4000D and 5000D series and its own iCUE-controlled fans.
- Cooler Master: has a long history in PC cases, with the MasterBox and the small-format NR200 among its best-known models.
- Fractal Design: Scandinavian-style cases such as the Meshify and North series.
- Phanteks: known for the Eclipse and Enthoo series, covering both airflow-focused and larger builds.
- Jonsbo: makes aluminium cases, including many compact mini-ITX models.
Also in our range: Aerocool, Gigabyte, Montech and Sharkoon cases.
Frequently asked questions
Does a glass side panel case cool worse?
The glass itself does not make cooling worse, but it does not let air through. What matters is a mesh or perforated front and enough fans. A well-planned glass case cools much like one with a metal side.
Is tempered glass better than acrylic?
Tempered glass scratches less, stays flat and remains clear. Acrylic is lighter and less likely to break, but it picks up scratches more easily. If you remove the panel often, consider the weight of the glass too.
Will a midi tower case fit an ATX motherboard?
Most midi tower cases accept ATX, micro-ATX and mini-ITX boards. Still, check the supported formats listed by the manufacturer, as smaller mini tower and cube cases may not take a full ATX board.
How do I hide cables in a glass case?
Choose a case with space behind the motherboard tray, cable guides and tie points for Velcro straps. Everything is visible through the glass, so tidy cabling matters more than in a solid-panel case. Check the product photos of the rear of the case before buying.
